important considerations for your ct scan · important considerations for your ct scan !!...
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Important considerations for your CT Scan
Be sure to inform your doctor if you are, or suspect you may be, pregnant before proceeding with the CT scan. CT scans are not usually performed during pregnancy. Additionally, if you’ve ever had contrast agents before and experienced discomfort or an allergic reaction, inform the technologist and the doctor. The scanner has a weight limit of 400lbs. Preparing for a CT Scan Preparation for a CT exam varies, depending on the type of exam your doctor has ordered. At the time of booking, your doctor's office will provide you with specific instructions for your particular exam. • No preparation required for: spines, head without contrast, sinus, and extremity scans. • Preparation of drinking an oral prep called Readicat 90 minutes prior to your exam is required for soft tissue neck, chest and head with contrast and most abdomen and pelvis scans. You are welcome to pick your prep up in advance or arrive at our office 90 minutes early and drink it here. • In some instances, you will be asked to drink a bottle of Readicat the night prior to your scan, as well as, a bottle 90 minutes prior to your scan. In this case you will need to pick up the oral preparation in advance. • You may receive IV contrast. The IV contrast adds detail to all major organs and blood vessels. The Technologist will explain the contrast procedure in detail and a detailed medical history will be taken from you. All exams needing an IV require you have nothing to eat or drink for 3 hours before your scan.. • At this time, we will need a list of any current medications you are taking. (Please bring a list of current medications with you.) • If you receive the IV contrast, you may feel some slight discomfort while the IV is initially set up. While the IV is first being administered, you may have cool sensation in your arm, a metallic taste in your mouth and/or a warm flushing sensation. All sensations are normal and go away within a few minutes. • Depending on what your symptoms are, the technologist may be required to administer rectal contrast. A small flexible tube will be inserted into your rectum and Readicat will fill your lower colon. This enables complete visualization of your colon. If rectal contrast is required, the technologist will explain the process in detail.